Shopper News blog: Fish tank technology takes out the work - Knoxville News Sentinel
Shopper News blog: Fish tank technology takes out the work - Knoxville News Sentinel |
| Shopper News blog: Fish tank technology takes out the work - Knoxville News Sentinel Posted: 27 Jan 2020 06:11 AM PST CLOSE  2020 Knox-area Interscholastic Swim League Diving Championships in Video Knoxville News Sentinel What's new in your community? Find out here at the Shopper-News blog. We'll have updates on people, places, businesses, schools and sports in your community. Check back throughout the week. NORTH/EAST YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center celebrates a centuryCarol Z. Shane, Shopper News The story of the YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center is the story of people stepping up to care for some of society's most vulnerable, disadvantaged citizens – giving them a safe space, listening to them, finding ways to address their changing needs, improving their lives and the lives of their families and community.  This photo of young girls holding candles up in a church has no date, but Annie Jones estimates it to be from the late 1950s. Jones is former YWCA Phyllis Wheatley Center executive director. (Photo: Submitted)For 100 years. "That's a lot of living, a lot of changing," says Kathy Mack, executive director of the PWC. "A lot of giving, a lot of serving." She's been at the helm since 2015 and has seen the addition of a technology center; REACH – an internship program that helps young men and women ages 15-18 develop the skills they need to enter the workforce; and ReCAB, the newest program, aimed at reducing chronic absenteeism. In other words, she and her staff are doing the same thing the PWC has always done since it was begun in the spring of 1920 as a place of support for young African-American women who needed safe, affordable housing and instruction in "soft skills" such as sewing, cooking and laundry – what Mack calls "empowerment skills."  The crowning of Charlene Sain as 1958 Miss Y-Teen, Austin High School. With her are proud mom Mrs. Ozona Sain, left, and Mrs. Janet Peterson, Y-Teen director, Phyllis Wheatley Branch. (Photo: Submitted)Its first location was in rented rooms on Vine Avenue, then a building of its own on Temperance Street. Other locations on Temperance Street and McCalla Avenue were also home to the PWC until 1962, when the current PWC Cruze Street location was dedicated and opened. "We hear so many stories about how it's evolved," Mack says. "One of the things I appreciate about a 100-year anniversary is going back and hearing those stories of the people whose shoulders we are now standing on. They had the vision way back when, and we have the opportunity now to help move it. "A lot of firsts happened here. 'This is the first place I went to a dance party, a tea party. The place I learned to cook, my arts and crafts group, my sorority met here, my business, my church.' This was the gathering hub and support place for African-American people."  Shown with a wall painting of Phyllis Wheatley, Annie Jones has treasured her time at the YWCA for more than 50 years. (Photo: Carol Z. Shane)Karlyn Reel, the YWCA's director of public relations, marvels at the vision of the founders. "Even in 1923 they're already talking about a bigger location. And they want a gym and they want a kitchen. And it didn't come to fruition until '62. But even then they were imagining all the opportunities." The theme of the yearlong celebration is "100 Years of Opportunity." Mack says she's most excited about the Homecoming, planned for November, with details yet to be set.  Celebrating the Phyllis Wheatley Center's 100-year birthday all year: Karlyn Reel, YWCA director of public relations; J.D. Fuller, who oversees facilities and is also an after-school counselor; Bridget Baldau, PWC assistant director; Kathy Mack, PWC executive director; Annie Jones, ReCAB coordinator and past executive director; and Tierra Gordon, after-school counselor. Jan. 22, 2020. (Photo: Carol Z. Shane/Shopper News)"This is a community center where opportunities have been afforded to all. As communities change we have to change. But remain who we are to our core – eliminating racism and empowering women. And it's not just about 100 years, or just about now – we're in this thing for the long haul. We've come a long way, but there's a long way to go." To learn more about PWC, visit ywcaknox.com. BEARDEN Fish tank technology takes out the workJohn Shearer, Shopper News Bearden resident Brandon Schreiber has developed some inexpensive technology that he hopes becomes for fish in an aquarium what Siri or Alexa are for humans at home – without any gurgling commands needed, of course.  Bearden resident Brandon Schreiber, who got his first electronics kit in the fifth grade, said he is enjoying his current job as a test engineer working with automated fixtures. (Photo: Submitted)The 26-year-old engineer recently designed and constructed a 3-inch-by-3-inch circuit board that can control various operations of a saltwater tank in a way that can limit the work required by the aquarium owner, even if some labor is needed initially. It is sort of fish and microchips, if you will. While such ready-to-use automated aquarium technology is already available for purchase for hundreds of dollars, Schreiber has tried to develop one much less expensive for someone who does not mind doing a little soldering and wiring. "It's a $14 circuit board that has the ability to control a tank's equipment and use multiple sensors, including temperature, pH and water level," he said.  Brandon Schreiber, a 26-year-old engineer, recently designed and constructed a 3-inch-by-3-inch circuit board that can control various operations of a saltwater tank. (Photo: Submitted)Called Leviathan after the mythical sea monster – and perhaps looking like something strange to a fish – the board fits on top of a Raspberry Pi computer that is smaller than a credit card. Using open source aquarium software from the Reef-Pi online community project with which he is involved, it does most of the work once installed. Schreiber said the motivation came from having to take care of his own aquarium. Interested in raising tropical fish since high school, he had a freshwater tank in his college dorm at Tennessee Tech, and got a saltwater tank for his apartment after moving to Knoxville to work for the BSH appliance manufacturing facility by Jacksboro. "Saltwater tanks have a lot of parameters to track and maintain," he said, adding that leaving home and an unattended tank for just a day or two can cause problems. As a result, he wanted to come up with an economical way to keep everything constant. What has surprisingly wavered – but in a good way – is how his Kickstarter campaign to help fund the project shot straight up quickly.  Brandon Schreiber's circuit board is called Leviathan after the mythical sea monster. (Photo: Submitted)After launching on Jan. 13, he was pleasantly surprised that he quickly raised more than five times the goal of $1,250. Some of the pledges are from people supporting the project, while others are interested in purchasing the limited number of the constructed Leviathans. While he enjoyed figuring out how to construct the board in his free time, he did it mainly to help fellow aquarium owners rather than his bank account, saying that he probably does not plan to make it into a business venture.  Brandon Schreiber (Photo: Submitted photo)"I don't know what the next step is going to be," he said. "I didn't make it to sell. I made it for my tank and sharing it with the people in Reef-Pi. They do like it." The former Milan, Tenn., resident, who got his first electronics kit in the fifth grade, said he is enjoying his current job as a test engineer working with automated fixtures. It is a vocation not unlike his recently completed off-hours avocation. "There are a lot of similar things," he said with a laugh. "There are things I learned from this project and vice versa." KARNS West Towne Christian Church hosts second annual Paw PartyNancy Anderson, Shopper News Rain put a damper on the attendance of the second annual Paw Party at West Towne Christian Church on Saturday, Jan. 18. But it didn't faze about 20 attendees and their four-legged friends.  Ellie asks politely for the ball at the second annual Paw Party held at West Towne Christian Church on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020. (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)"Last year we had about 50 dogs out here, so attendance is down," said event coordinator Kaleb Mullins. "It's pouring rain right now so that's probably got a lot to do with it. We're not discouraged, though. Everyone here had a great time." Not many churches sponsor a get together for pets as a ministry. "It's just something unusual for the community. Something fun to do during the winter. We'd like people to come visit us and bring their four-legged friends. Everyone is welcome. Maybe if they're looking for a church home, someplace fun and friendly, they'll think of us," Mullins said.  Rocky the Lab mix gives his owner Katy Ramey a kiss at the second annual Paw Party held at West Towne Christian Church Saturday, Jan. 18. (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)Large and small dogs had their own pen keeping them separated by size. We don't want the smaller ones to accidentally get hurt while playing," Mullins said. "Some small dogs are really intimidated by a larger dog. Actually, some of the big ones are intimidated by the smaller ones too, so it's best to keep them separated. "There were no fights last year nor this year. Everyone seemed to play well and get along great." Several volunteers from the church helped clean up messes and keep the larger dogs contained when the pen collapsed. "We'll have to think of a better way to secure the pen. It comes down pretty easy. The dogs don't really challenge it, though. They seem pretty happy to stay in the pen ... except for Zeus." Zeus the German shepherd noticed the pen had come down and tried to make a break for it. Volunteer Willow Malone, a slip of a girl, was unafraid of the big dog and caught him by the collar before he could make his escape.  Anthony McDaneld with Ledger the Boston Terrier at the second annual Paw Party held at West Towne Christian Church on Saturday, Jan. 18. "He's a little dog, but a big dog at heart," said McDaneld. 2020 (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)"She's an amazing girl, always willing to help," Mullins said. Both Willow and Mullins were quick with the paper towels when it came to "accidents." "We've got several people on cleanup duty, which is much easier with 20 dogs than 50, believe me," Mullins said. Mullins supplied gift bags for the visitors containing a tennis ball, a rawhide chew and a bacon treat. "The gift bags are a hit. Dogs love the ball and of course the treat. It' just a little something extra to say 'thanks for coming out to be with us.'"  April Andrews with event coordinator Kaleb Mullins picks up a gift bag at the second annual Paw Party held at West Towne Christian Church on Saturday, Jan. 18. 2020 (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)Mullins had Krispy Kreme doughnuts on hand, to the delight of the paw parents. He plans to add more Paw Parties to the event calendar. "It's such a good way to get to know each other on a deeper level and to reach out to the community. We're going to start having the party several times a year." Info: www.followjesus.org SOUTH Celebrating Knox County Schools' Teachers of the YearAli James, Shopper News We traveled around South Knoxville's neighborhood schools to meet their Knox County Schools' Teachers of the Year.  Courtney Payne, fourth grade math teacher at Bonny Kate Elementary School, on Jan. 22, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)"I love seeing kids develop a love for mathematics through a conceptual understanding of its processes," said Courtney Payne, who incorporates all of the other fourth grade subjects into her math lessons daily. "My biggest tool is the use of manipulatives," she said. "These are actual items like place value blocks that allow students to touch the math that is happening abstractly on paper. My students build and draw math problems daily."  Adrienne Notess, music teacher at Dogwood Elementary on Jan. 22, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)"Adrienne Notess does all kinds of cool, creative lessons – dressing up in outfits, sending kids through a time machine to visit past music legends, and such," said principal Lana Shelton Lowe. "I always love when my students come back from middle or high school to tell me they've continued on with music and are in the band or choir," said Notess. "But the most specific memorable moment was my steel drum ensemble performing in the WIVK Christmas Parade." Notess said her students overcame their excitement and nerves to perform in front of thousands.  Lizzy Revans, special education teacher, with student Mace Headrick at Dogwood Elementary School on Jan. 22, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Lizzy Revans says that her hardworking teaching assistants and her own "stubborness" and patience have created new ways for her students to achieve goals."After working for several weeks on community signs and meanings, such as 'open,' 'please seat yourself,' 'place trash here,' in conjunction with studying counting and money, I brought McDonald's food items back to the classroom," said Revans. "The students made their selections from a modified McDonald's picture menu that we had created, paid for their food, and then got to eat the real thing. It was great to see their excitement for this activity."  Rebecca Ratledge, second grade teacher at Gap Creek Elementary, on Jan. 22, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Rebecca Ratledge taught at Sarah Moore Greene for 18 years before moving to Gap Creek this year. "I think my most unique teaching tool is getting to know each child as an individual," said Ratledge. "I am able to build relationships, which help them in all academic areas, and their everyday life. I meet each student where they are and am able to use differentiation to grow them. I use their strengths to build on things they need to know."  Sam Moser, fifth grade math teacher at Mooreland Heights Elementary School, on Jan. 16, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)"I do my best to set up an environment where students are not afraid to fail, that mistakes are part of the learning process," said Moser, who shows his students that he makes mistakes but always tries to fix them. "A student once raised their hand to show me how they made a mistake and figured out how to fix it up on their own. A neighbor overheard and genuinely clapped for the student. Next thing I know, all the students are clapping and that student had a chance to share with the whole class their mistake and how to fix it."  Stacy Davis, librarian at Mount Olive Elementary School, on Jan. 22, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)"Our library operates like a middle or high school library on a flexible schedule," said Davis. Students can check out books at any time, and if a class is researching something, the teachers can schedule class time. "If they need to come three days in a row, they are able to," said Davis. "Access to books has increased. This first semester alone, students and staff in the building have checked out almost 7,500 books. In comparison, during the entire last year on a fixed schedule we checked out about 10,800."  Kaley Clark, first grade teacher at New Hopewell Elementary School, on Jan. 22, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Kaley Clark reinforces "Rule #4 – believe in yourself" in her class. "I try to instill in the students that you can do anything you want in life if you believe in yourself," said Clark. "It's pretty special hearing older students say 'remember rule #4!' to their peers." Clark also makes up quick chants and songs to help things with students – spelling words, solving math problems or as a quick "pick me up."  Megan Cooper, third grade teacher at South Knoxville Elementary, on Jan. 16, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Megan Cooper has worked closely with one of her students to increase her reading fluency and comprehension, improving it from 29 to 66 words per minute and in the process lifting her reading level. "I have worked on providing my students with a 'calming corner'," said Cooper. "In this area, the students have the chance to 'cool down' by focusing on their breathing and removing themselves from a difficult situation. This has provided my students with the ability to learn about their emotions and how to control them." NORTH/EAST Belle Morris teacher Caitlin Hatfield honoredCarol Z. Shane, Shopper News "There's a lot going on in here," says Belle Morris fifth grade math teacher Caitlin Hatfield, gesturing around her "open classroom." Past the flourishing green plants on the windowsill hangs a hammock chair.  Caitlin Hatfield teaches math, but she also reads to "her" kids daily. January 22, 2020. (Photo: Carol Z. Shane/Shopper News)There's a small library, and a comfortable seating area along the same wall includes a couch, cushions and weighted blankets. An exercise bike sits nearby. "That's probably the second favorite next to the hammock," says Hatfield. Students who just can't sit still hop on the bike and pedal away as they work their math problems. Isn't it distracting? Hatfield shakes her head. "They get the work done." Hatfield is Belle Morris' Teacher of the Year, chosen by her colleagues, because of – in the words of principal Terry Lynn Hursey – all the "purposeful, mindful" changes she's brought to her students and, by extension, to the faculty, staff and administration. Her implementation of mindfulness techniques has halved the school's office referrals – what used to be known as "getting sent to the principal's office" because of disciplinary problems. "I'm able to get into classrooms and do academics and structure instead of behavior," says Hursey. "It's really, really helpful."  Belle Morris principal Terry Lynn Hursey says of the mindfulness practices brought into Belle Morris by Teacher of the Year Caitlin Hatfield, "you're hearing about this being taught all around the country – students being taught how to handle, and cope with, situations." January 22, 2020. (Photo: Carol Z. Shane/Shopper News)Key to the dramatic drop in troublesome behavior is the Mindfulness Room, in place since 2017. "I'm on the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support (PBIS) committee," says Hatfield. "That previous year we had a lot of office referrals, and it was the same kids over and over. Nothing was getting fixed at all." She'd attended some mindfulness classes, and started to research the technique's effectiveness for the kids. With fellow teachers Melinda Forgety and Sara Daugherty, Hatfield wrote a grant proposal, and with the funds they won from the Great Schools Partnership, they put the Mindfulness Room in place. "And we saw a really drastic decrease in office referrals. Kids were able to request to go to the room if they were having a rough day." The Mindfulness Room is part of a larger area overseen by instructional coach Angela Patrick. The students can talk to her in order to work things out, or just go straight to the calming space at the rear of the room, or both. On the table in the Mindfulness Room are a small trickling fountain, a soothing lamp, and hand held wooden labyrinths that kids can trace with a finger, calming their breathing and focusing attention away from their distress. Posters remind them to "Just breathe," "Inhale," "Exhale." Cushions provide comfort, and weighted blankets encourage stillness.  Belle Morris' Teacher of the Year Caitlin Hatfield laughs as she shows off a "wobble stool," part of the flexible seating in her open classroom. She says the stool allows the students to burn off energy while they're doing their work. "It's not distracting," she says – actually quite the opposite. January 22, 2020. (Photo: Carol Z. Shane/Shopper News)"This is our little corner," says Hatfield. "Our calm space. It's really nice." Students can also avail themselves of a small mindfulness library featuring books such as "I Can Do Hard Things" and "A Handful of Quiet." Over 94% of kids who visit the Mindfulness Room don't repeat the same troublesome behavior that day. "They don't come back," says Hursey. She's pleased with the results so far, "and it just keeps getting better and better. I think the teachers did a great job on who they picked!" HALLS/FOUNTAIN CITY New Central head coach steps up to lead 'FAMILY'Ali James, Shopper News Former defensive coordinator Nick Craney may be in his new role as head coach at Central High School, but he still gets the same question.  New Central High School head coach Nick Craney steps up from defensive coordinator for the two-time state champions. In the school's fieldhouse weight room on Jan. 23, 2020, he said, "We have tried to keep things rolling from a workout standpoint. We have had things in place that have built that foundation." (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)"Everybody wants to know if Central can three-peat," he said. "That has never been a stated goal. We are really driven to be the very best we can be in everything – in athletics to academics; that has set us up for success. Obviously, we would love to see it, but the answer is 'sure we can', but that's not what we are pushing." Central High School officially announced Craney as Bryson Rosser's replacement on Jan. 21. "Nick Craney has an impressive football pedigree," said athletic director J.D. Lambert. "He played at 4-A state power Greeneville High School Tennessee and played for and coached under legendary Coach Ken Sparks at Carson-Newman before arriving in Fountain City in 2014 to join Coach Rosser's first coaching staff. His impressive work as Rosser's defensive coordinator has been instrumental in back-to-back state titles for Central High." Craney is no stranger to hearing Rosser's name being bandied about for college job openings, but was surprised when Rosser announced on Jan. 7 that he was resigning to support his wife's new position at Harvard.  Nick Craney grew up in South Florida near Miami. He spotted this photo online – BOBCAT NATION WELCOMES NICK CRANEY AS HEAD COACH – "outside AAArena in Miami where the Heat play. I never thought I'd be able to look up from Biscayne Blvd. and see myself like this," he posted. "Bobcat Nation is growing, and I cannot be more excited to lead this program moving into this next era." January 2020 (Photo: Submitted)"I didn't see this particular thing happening," he said. "I'm super happy for him, but it is bittersweet. The football family will miss him; we have been together for six years. We will always be connected and he is going to stay plugged in." The foundation here at Central has always been set in family, according to Craney. "Rosser established 'FAMILY – Forget About Me I Love You.' That has been our motto from the start and that's not going to change," he said. "That is one of the things we are very much aligned on and him going with his wife is the ultimate example of what it means." Before Craney accepted the new position, he said it was crucial that his wife was on board. "I'm very thankful to my wife. Brooke is a teacher, and we both view it as a calling and an opportunity and a ministry to kids," he said. "My 3-year-old daughter, Lilly, comes to practice and sorts cones on the sideline. They are both around all of the time. We include our family as much as we can."  Knoxville Central Bobcats defensive coordinator Nick Craney with his wife, Brooke, and daughter, Lilly, with the 2019 State Championship trophy on Dec. 6, 2019 in Cookeville, Tennessee. (Photo: Submitted)Balancing his new head coach duties will be an interesting challenge. "Over the last season or two, I felt I wanted to be more involved in offense, and given this new opportunity I can influence what the offense will do," he said. "We have really good defensive coaches that can set up and there should not be any letdown in defensive excellence." Craney will continue teaching AP Government and Government for this semester before taking over the head coach's role as "Graduation Coach." "Rosser preferred to call it an academic interventionalist," said Craney. "It gives me the ability to build relationships, see what kids are struggling with and making sure they are doing what they need to be doing. We have right at 100 kids (on the team), and it is critical that they are making a positive impact." Craney said the smooth transition is a huge testament to Rosser.  Knoxville Central Bobcats defensive coordinator Nick Craney with daughter Lilly, during the pep rally on Dec. 6, 2019, at Central High School, Knoxville. (Photo: Photo by John Valentine)"There has been no letdown whatsoever," he said. "Even with kids in spring sports we still have 50 kids show up every day." The teams are focused on community service – setting up for the Knox County Schools Job Fair, an elementary school dance and a carnival. And they will watch the Super Bowl with senior residents at The Pointe at Lifespring again this year. "March 9-11 we are doing a Lift-a-thon in the Fieldhouse; people can donate money per pound and businesses can match the money they raise," he said. Craney will continue to oversee the improvements Rosser set in motion. "We are going to start revamping the athletic training room, and we would like to work on the team room. There is always lots of stuff I would love to do." It is a good time to step into Rosser's shoes as the Bobcats are set to play in the same region again. "This year's schedule is the same, the classification has stayed the same; it's a good time to step in," he said. KNOXVILLE Remote Area Medical to bring free clinic to KnoxvilleShopper News Remote Area Medical-RAM® – a major nonprofit provider of pop-up clinics delivering free, quality dental, vision, and medical care to underinsured and uninsured individuals – returns to Knoxville this week, Friday, Jan. 31- Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020, to provide care for those in need. Services available at the RAM clinic include dental cleanings, dental fillings, dental extractions, dental X-rays, eye exams, glaucoma testing, eyeglass prescriptions, eyeglasses made on-site, women's health exams, and general medical exams. Additional medical services expected to be available throughout the weekend include medical foot care, physical therapy, lung screenings, head/neck/mouth and breast screenings, HIV and Hep C testing, mental health services, and colon screenings. Spay/Neuter services will also be available on a first-come, first-served basis only for dogs and cats of RAM patients receiving services. These services will be available on Friday and Saturday only. Important additional details about this service can be found at ramusa.org. All RAM services are free, and no ID is required. The RAM clinic will be held at Chilhowee Park's Jacob Building at 3301 E. Magnolia Ave., Knoxville, TN 37914. The clinic parking lot is scheduled to open at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 31. Tickets will be distributed no later than 3 a.m. Patients will be seen on a first-come, first-served basis in numerical order, according to their ticket number. Clinic doors open at 6 a.m. This process will repeat on Saturday, Feb. 1, and then again on Sunday, Feb. 2. In some situations, such as inclement weather, volunteer cancellations, or other circumstances outside RAM's control, ticketing may occur earlier than 3 a.m. RAM encourages everyone who would like services, especially dental services, to arrive as early as possible. The Knoxville clinic will also kick off RAM's new colon cancer screening program available to patients throughout 2020, thanks to the generous support of Olympus Corporation of the Americas. HALLS/FOUNTAIN CITY Grace your space with what makes you happyAli James, Shopper News For 10 years, Laura Biddle has helped over 150 friends and clients as a personal organizer and assistant. "I've worked in homes from a two-bedroom to $2 million homes," she said. "I've seen it all and nothing scares me."  "I turned the 'Five P's' around with my clients with the Three P's – planning prevents panic," said Laura Biddle, personal organizer. "Whenever people can't find an item, they panic and rebuy." Jan. 20, 2020 Fountain City. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Biddle has so many useful tips, she has written a book and says in addition to organizing advice, it will have steps to figure out how you function and how frugal living and travel all work together. "Once you simplify your life then you get to do what you want to do," she said. Where do I start? "My answer is always start in the room or area that drives you crazy," Biddle said. "Declutter and take everything out that doesn't belong there – if it's dusty and you haven't used it in a year, you don't need it. Organize what's left. Finish it completely and grace your space with what makes you happy." The entry is not a drop zone. "It should be welcoming, you should feel peace and joy to be home, and create a calm, comfortable environment," Biddle said. "You should never have to hide anything from guests; they should be able to hang their coat in the front closet. It doesn't have to be perfect, but it should be well organized or maintained."  The entry is not a drop zone. "It should be welcoming, you should feel peace and joy to be home, and create a calm comfortable environment," said personal organizer Laura Biddle. Jan. 20, 2020 Fountain City. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Knickknacks are a recurring issue Biddle always looks at surfaces: kitchen and bathroom counters and desk areas. "So many people just drop items there," she said. "Knickknacks are things that people cannot make a decision about and they won't fit into a drawer so they collect in entryways, kitchen countertops and dressers." Use a room for its intended purpose "Dining rooms are so full of stuff," said Biddle. "I tell people my goal for you is to sit down and eat with your family, I don't care if it's pizza. That's what it's intended for." If it's yours, it goes into your room Kids will leave toys scattered, and even adults leave items like their chargers plugged in various rooms or books left lying around. "If it's yours, pick it up," she said. Don't fill to maximum capacity "Just because you have a large walk-in closet doesn't mean you have to fill it up," Biddle said. "You have one body; do you truly need 300 pieces of clothing?" Instead, Biddle suggests 50 matching hangers with your favorite items clearly displayed. "When you simplify your laundry, you reduce the amount of time it takes to wash, fold, dry and hang," she added. Donate it right away "I always offer to take things to donate to their chosen charity and send (clients) a receipt," Biddle said. "If you do that right away, the children won't go back through the bags and take things out." Shelters, ministry centers, Habitat, KARM and Salvation Army can use that extra set of dishes, according to Biddle. Garages "Park your car, not your stuff," Biddle said. "I've seen one home with a very expensive car sitting outside in the weather and a lot of cheap junk is in the garage. Later never happens and at some point, the garage door doesn't close."  "Piles of work things on the counter top, those create anxiety and doesn't make anyone happy," said organizer, Laura Biddle who helps set up systems for her clients and shows them how to maintain their home office paperwork filing. Jan. 20, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Paperwork Biddle suggests creating 13 files – one for each month and an additional folder for tax documents. "I don't keep cash receipts, and any receipt for something purchased that month I keep it there until my bank statement comes in and match it," she said. "File your medical documents by month and it'll be presorted for you." Children's keepsakes "My advice is one file box with 13 folders for kindergarten through 12th grade. In each file keep 10-12 things that represent that school year – a report card, an award, a sports ribbon, or a funny drawing, things they will look back on," she said. "You're not going to give them 12 crates that they don't know what to do with when they move out – break the cycle now. We have to show our children that if something is not serving you anymore, bless someone else." More: Which former Tennessee football player was in the most Super Bowls? More: Special Tennova unit in North Knoxville to welcome first babies More: Hardin Valley hardware store aims to be one-stop shopping BEARDEN Cedar Bluff Middle singers having fun on stage and offJohn Shearer, Shopper News Plenty of noise can often be found coming from one classroom at Cedar Bluff Middle School, but it is a group of students happily working on their favorite discipline, not youngsters being a discipline problem.  Cedar Bluff Middle School music teacher Edie Taylor behind her keyboard on Jan 22, 2020. (Photo: John Shearer/Shopper News)Edie Taylor's music classes and chorus groups occupy that classroom, and a recent visit with six of her top music students during a break time showed they not only enjoy singing, they also enjoy verbally interacting with Taylor. "We spend different class periods just laughing with her and spending time with her," said eighth-grader Ari Rathe. Kate Crass said Taylor has a personality that makes the students want to cut up with her in a positive way. "But in class we do take it seriously and hopefully we don't mess it up," the seventh-grader said with a laugh. They apparently have not, as Taylor's vocal ensemble recently received a tangible musical holiday present to go along with all their general enjoyment by getting invited to perform in December in the Mighty Musical Monday program. In front of a nearly full midday crowd at the Tennessee Theatre, they were able to share the stage with such accomplished area adult musicians as house organist Freddie Brabson, Trisha Gene Brady, the Ensemble Swing Time and the king of "Ho Ho Ho," Santa Claus.  Colorful drums, shown on Jan. 22, 2020, are used in the music program at Cedar Bluff Middle School. (Photo: John Shearer/Shopper News)The invitation had come from Brabson, who had meticulously put the program together and remembered being impressed when they performed at another Mighty Musical Monday. "It was a success," said Taylor of the auditioned group that has been a part of the school for four years and has also performed at the Rossini Festival and Dollywood and with the Knoxville Opera. "They did very, very well." Crass joked they were a little nervous, but added, "When you are nervous, you show you care about something." Taylor is actually used to being on such a big stage, and not just as a choir director. The Eastman School of Music graduate sang with the Baltimore Opera and at the Spoleto Festival in Italy and the U.S. before embarking on a full-time music teaching career. After starting out working in Maryland, she moved to Knoxville and worked at Amherst Elementary, West Valley Middle and Rocky Hill Elementary before coming to Cedar Bluff six years ago.  Several members of the Cedar Bluff Middle School's vocal ensemble relax in their classroom on Jan. 22, 2020. Front row, from left, are Ari Rathe, Solomon Murakami and Kate Crass. Back row: Ian Beatty, Noor Alsaadun, teacher Edie Taylor, and Allan Rodriguez. (Photo: John Shearer/Shopper News)And she has not regretted trading the bright lights of a stage career for the overhead ones of a classroom. "The people are much nicer," she said of the field of education. "And the kids appreciate music and art. It's fabulous to bring that to them for the first time." She said music is a great curriculum to teach because students are usually motivated, and they get to use both sides of their brains. "And studies show you that students who study music do better in school," she added. She does a variety of teaching, from basic music classes to leading the school chorus and the extracurricular vocal ensemble, which practices before school a couple of days a week. But the students apparently don't mind the early hours. "I love getting up early," said seventh-grader Solomon Murakami. "I love going to Ms. Taylor's chorus classes. It's one of the fun things." Besides, they still get to listen to music during the school day without breaking any rules by listening to tunes on their smart phones, he added.  Six members of Cedar Bluff Middle School's vocal ensemble practice at the school on Jan. 22, 2020, while teacher Edie Taylor leads them on the keyboard. From left are Noor Alsaadun, Ari Rathe, Solomon Murakami, Allan Rodriguez, Kate Crass and Ian Beatty. The group performed at the Mighty Musical Monday program at the Tennessee Theatre in December. (Photo: John Shearer/Shopper News)Ian Beatty, an eighth-grader, said he likes all the different genres of music they sing in class. "We sing songs in Japanese, South African, French and Spanish," he said. Fellow eighth-grader Allan Rodriguez had moved from Texas and has enjoyed learning all these different songs, too. "Some songs I recognize and some I really enjoy," he said. "That's really nice. You have music that you can just take and learn and execute." Noor Alsaadun, another eighth-grader, also enjoys the variety of music styles, but also likes the consistent personality of Taylor. "She's a really great teacher and always makes us laugh instead of it just being a strict chorus," she said. Taylor's classroom looks a little like a Nashville music store, with numerous guitars hanging on one wall, and colorful tall drums in another area. But the brightest sights were the faces of the students, who with little prompting gladly broke into the Congolese folk song "Banaha" during the interview, while Taylor played the keyboard.  Teacher Edie Taylor plays the keyboard while a few of the members of the Cedar Bluff Middle School's vocal ensemble choir practice on Jan. 22, 2020, From left are Noor Alsaadun, Ari Rathe, Solomon Murakami, and Allan Rodriguez. (Photo: John Shearer/Shopper News)The six students are not only enjoying the present with contentment, they are also looking to the future with excitement and confidence. And many are thinking about getting into music as adults. Beatty hopes to be a music producer making beats on his computer, while Rathe wants to be a music teacher, as Alsaadun does, or maybe a child psychologist. Rodriguez said he might like to be a choir director like Taylor, while Crass might enjoy a vocation like Taylor's earlier career. "One of my dreams in life is to be a Broadway actress," she said. SOUTH By-appointment bridal boutique expands in South KnoxvilleAli James, Shopper News Anna Wiggins was shopping for her own wedding dress when she was inspired to start Loveliest Bridal Boutique. "I fell in love with wedding dress shopping, but I had some experiences that I didn't feel were as special," she said. Wiggins wanted to provide a space where the bride-to-be could try on potential wedding dresses with a handful of friends and family, without having to jostle for space in front of a mirror.  Loveliest Bridal Boutique owner Anna Wiggins in her new location at 820 Sevier Ave. in South Knoxville on Jan. 21, 2020. Wiggins said the boho décor doubles as an Instagrammable backdrop for brides and their friends. "I have a master's in city planning and a passion for mixed use. This area is becoming more walkable and mixed use," she said. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)"I wanted to provide an experience where you have the whole store to yourself," said Wiggins, who opened Loveliest Bridal Boutique in September 2016 in Bearden. "It limited us. We could only take four appointments on a Saturday and we ended up with a waiting list." According to Wiggins, her recent move to 820 Sevier Ave. was an opportunity to double her space to 2,100 square feet and be in an up and coming area. Wiggins worked with the owners of the building to create two private spaces, each with its own entrance. "It still feels like you have the store to yourself," she said. "But it allows us to accommodate more brides."  The retail space at 820 Sevier Ave. is 2,100 square feet and was a blank slate for Anna Wiggins, owner of the Loveliest Bridal Boutique. Original window frames have been repurposed for full-length mirrors and brick walls exposed. "I just think it's cool that it feels fresh and airy; it's a little more modern but it has elements of the original building," said Wiggins. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)Wiggins' previous location was already built out; the new space was a blank slate. "I was fortunate to find a space that fit the bill; it was more Parisian and 'boutiquey'," she said of her first store. "But I wanted to put my own spin on it and have it speak more to our style." Original window frames have been repurposed for full-length mirrors and brick walls exposed. "I just think it's cool that it feels fresh and airy. It's a little more modern but it has elements of the original building," said Wiggins. "We have generations of families coming in, but we want to feel fresh and relevant, a little more urban and chic. The front has a little bit of boho flair in the front and mid-century mod in the back."  Loveliest Bridal Boutique owner, Anna Wiggins listens to what her customers are looking for, and try to fill the gap when it comes to popular styles. Jan. 21, 2020. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)The racks at Loveliest Bridal Boutique are split evenly between special order collection and off-the-rack designer dresses – from other bridal boutiques making room for new inventory and designers selling their sample dresses that have only been tried on only in a boutique setting. Sizes range from 00 to 18. "Those are great for brides who may have a smaller timeline or budget," she said. Wiggins said they recommend seamstresses for alterations, and they work closely with The Perfect Fit. Loveliest Bridal carries six designer brands: Ti Adora, Beccar Couture, Alyssa Kristin, Tara Lauren, Lis Simon from Canada and Pronovias from Barcelona, Spain. "We listen to feedback from our brides as the seasons go on we learn what brides are looking for," said Wiggins. "We didn't carry a lot of shimmer and bedazzled designs, so we picked up a designer that offers that, but at a decent price point." When the bride and her close family and friends arrive, Wiggins said they try to get an idea of the sorts of dresses they have tried on and what they like.  Loveliest Bridal Boutique owner, Anna Wiggins in her new store location at 820 Sevier Avenue on Jan. 21, 2020. A separate entrance helps to create two distinct spaces to accommodate more than one bride at a time. (Photo: Ali James/Shopper News)"We give them the lay of the land," she said. "We suggest they start with six dresses, and help them in and out of those. After we see what they like or don't like, we try to pull one or two more dresses that might fit the bill." It is the busiest time for Loveliest Bridal Boutique. Kim Robinette serves as a part-time stylist and Wiggins is advertising for an additional person. "I don't know how I did it by myself. Kim is both my right and left hand; she is amazing," said Wiggins. Loveliest Bridal: 822 Sevier Ave., 865-851-8126, https://loveliestbridal.com. Open by appointment, Monday-Saturday. KARNS Karns High majorettes Orlando boundNancy Anderson, Shopper News The Karns High School majorettes sponsored a baton twirling workshop at the school Monday, Jan. 20.  AnnaJo Ibbotson, 5, strikes a pose at the majorette workshop held at Karns High School Monday, Jan. 20. (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)The event was a fundraiser for an upcoming trip to Twirlmania, a world championship competition in Orlando Feb. 14-17. There will be competitors from all over the globe. "That's a pretty pricey trip," said instructional coach Karyn Lee. "The girls got together early in the year and decided to make and sell scrunchies. They've been selling them at Ingles, Food City, and the Christmas in Karns craft show. They've done pretty well with it too. Then we decided why not do a workshop. "Not only will the girls raise money but they'll get some leadership experience, too." The workshop brought in 12 girls from 4 to 14. Most have never touched a baton.  UT head majorette Kaylee Kennedy does neck rolls with Brooklynn Bowman, 14, at the majorette workshop held at Karns High School Monday, Jan. 20. (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)"We have some little ones here today who have never touched a baton before and they're already learning tricks. "There are a few older ones who want to increase their skill level, and a workshop like this one is the perfect way to do that." UT head majorette Kaylee Kennedy was on hand to lend her expertise. To join the high school team, a twirler must have one to two years of experience and possibly private lessons, Lee said. It takes hours upon hours of practice to become proficient at twirling the baton.  Elly Schmidt, 15, teaches Madison Thomas, 9, how to twirl in small circles at the Majorette Workshop held at Karns High School Monday, Jan. 20. (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)"Most of the girls started twirling in middle school. That's why I started a middle school majorette club at Karns Middle School. My two seniors, Macy McBee and Lainee McPherson, will help coach the middle school next year." The team consists of five girls, two seniors and three sophomores. "We've got a pretty well-seasoned team and we know more than a few tricks, so hopefully we'll do well in Orlando. The girls have put in the work." The majorettes practice with the Color Guard for 1½ hours every day during the first semester of the school year. They also practice for three hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Instructional coach Karyn Lee helps Belle Whitson, 15, with follow through at the majorette workshop held at Karns High School Monday, Jan. 20. (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)The popularity of majorettes may wax and wane over the years, but they are an integral part of the band's halftime show. "Baton adds a different aspect to a show. We complement the show. "This year's show was called 'The Signal,' so we used LED batons that light up. They complemented the band's uniforms that lit up. "The LED baton can be all kinds of colors. It adds that extra sparkle to the halftime show. "We're highly choreographed with tricks and exchanges. We twirl with two and three batons sometimes.  Macy McBee, 18, is pleased to have caught her baton after a particularly high toss at the majorette workshop held at Karns High School Monday, Jan. 20. (Photo: Nancy Anderson/Shopper News)"We definitely add a little specialness to the show, especially when we twirl fire. Unfortunately, we can't do that anymore because of the turf, but we find other ways to add that wow factor." Lee began twirling at the age of 7, then started coaching and teaching baton during her senior year of high school. She was a UT majorette and coached at West High, Pigeon Forge and Harriman High School. She has been an instructor at the UT majorette twirling camp for several years. Lee has been the Karns Middle and Karns High School coach for the past seven years. Info: www.knoxschools.org/karnshs FARRAGUT Hotel tax passes; debate continues on cell towersMargie Hagen, Shopper News The Board of Mayor and Aldermen held a lengthy meeting on Jan. 23 as they voted on the ordinance to enact the hotel/motel tax, passing it 4-1. Vice Mayor Louise Povlin cast the single vote against the tax. The board had previously heard comments from a majority of owners, and at the meeting four hotel representatives and a resident spoke against it again. There was some compromise in the final ordinance in terms of effective dates. For groups and business travel, room rates are contracted well in advance, and tax will not be applied to those existing reservations until Jan. 1, 2021. A "group" was redefined as five or more rooms and includes associations, conventions and weddings or social events. Hotels will have until March 1 of this year to finalize any contracts they have in the works to get this exemption.  One of the residents voicing opposition to the small cell towers at Town Hall on Jan. 23 was Mike Mitchell, a founder of the Farragut Citizens for Responsible Growth and Development. The grassroots organization has over 700 members. (Photo: Margie Hagen/Shopper News)The effective date was extended to June 1, 2020. Any rooms booked on or after that will be subject to an additional 3 percent, bringing Farragut's total occupancy tax to 17.25 percent. Nearly an hour was spent discussing the Knox County growth policy plan; density of future development in the county affects traffic throughout Farragut, primarily from Choto and Hardin Valley. School crowding is a concern, too. The complicated plan includes the general plan, a growth map and transportation plan and must be approved by Knox County, the City of Knoxville and Farragut before it can be implemented. BOMA rejected the resolution until the three components are updated and density is clearly defined; now it goes back to the Coordinating Committee with recommendations from the Town. Board members agreed that maintaining a good working relationship with Knox County is important but that protecting Farragut's interests is essential. While not on the agenda, the Citizens Forum had residents again voicing their opposition to the installation of small 5G cell towers. At the Planning Commission meeting on Jan. 16, commissioners "reluctantly" approved 11 sites on the advice of Town Attorney Tom Hale. Hale cited federal and state regulations making it illegal to deny the sites.  Good news for restaurant goers: Mind Yer P's & Q's in the Renaissance Center is reopening under new ownership. Longtime hospitality operator James Sexton leased the space at 12744 Kingston Pike and purchased the name and fixtures from the previous owners. Planning a March 1 opening, Sexton will be offering a new and more substantial menu. (Photo: Margie Hagen/Shopper News)Residents aren't having it; on Jan. 23, impassioned pleas to delay the project were heard from seven speakers. Among other issues, they want more information on co-locations using existing LCUB poles to limit the number of new installations. Verizon reps previously stated they would consider it, but are moving ahead without any resolution on co-locating. Lobbying for state legislation to exempt Farragut's residential areas is a possible avenue, but would need solid support and effort from our state and federal representatives. Without exception, residents are fiercely opposed and want town leaders to look for any means possible to at least delay this project until more can be learned. This won't be going away anytime soon, as competing telecommunications companies could apply for sites right next to each other. OPINION Empty nest comes with perks, but don't rush to get thereLeslie Snow, Shopper News My phone rings but I ignore it. I sink lower into the steaming bathwater and close my eyes, wishing the ringing would stop. But my phone is a demanding taskmaster. It doesn't care that I'm trying to soak away my stresses. I pick up my cell phone and see that it's Jordan calling on her way home from work. I weigh her need to tell me about her day with my need to enjoy my bath and decide to answer the phone.  Buy Photo Leslie Snow, News Sentinel columnist. (Photo: Paul Efird, Paul Efird/News Sentinel)"Are you taking a bath again?" she demands to know. I laugh at her question and confess the truth. "Yes, I'm in the bathtub. You know I'm a serial bather, why do you care?" "It just seems a bit excessive," she says with humor. "I never get to take baths." "That's because you work and have two small children," I respond. "I didn't take a bath for 15 years while you kids were growing up. I'm making up for lost time." She laughs and describes the highs and lows of her day before I tell her I want to finish my bath in peace. "Fine," she says, "but your bath time is really interfering with our talking time." The next evening, she calls again. "What are you doing?" she wants to know. "Your dad and I don't feel like cooking tonight, so we're going out for dinner." "That sounds nice," she says wistfully. "I have two cranky children I have to feed and put to bed." "I remember those hectic days well," I say before heading into the restaurant. "I promise they won't last forever." She calls again the next afternoon, a Saturday. She tells me her weekend plans then asks what we're doing. I'm afraid to tell her. "We're on our way to see a movie," I explain. "Have you seen 'Knives Out'? I heard it's good." "Now you're going to a movie!" she exclaims. "You guys do so many fun things. I'm taking Simon to get new socks." For some reason I feel the need to justify the movie. "Well, it's cold and rainy here so a movie seemed like a good idea." "I never spontaneously go to movies anymore," she laments. "And babysitters are so expensive." "I know," I say. "But we're living very different lives right now. You live the life of a young mother while I live the empty nester life. And while I miss all of you, and loved raising you, your dad and I are free now to do the things we couldn't do before." "Like take a bath whenever you want?" she responds with humor and longing. "Yes," I say with a smile, "like take a bath, go to a restaurant, and see a movie on a rainy Saturday afternoon. That's what empty nesters do." "I know," she says with a deep sigh, "I'm just a tiny bit jealous." "Your time will come," I promise. "One day, and even sooner than you can imagine, you'll be an empty nester too. And then you can take baths or go to movies whenever you want. But don't wish the time away. You have a wonderful, crazy life. "I know," she says, earnestly, "But today, Clara learned to make the world's most annoying noise and Simon screams every time she makes it." I can't help but laugh. "I'll tell you what," I respond. "Next time you visit I'll watch your screaming children and you can take a nice hot bath. But right now, I have to go. Your dad and I have a movie to see." Leslie Snow may be reached at snow column@aol.com. More: Former Knoxville police chiefs named to national law enforcement review panel Read or Share this story: https://www.knoxnews.com/story/shopper-news/2020/01/27/shopper-news-brings-you-latest-happenings-your-community/4586830002/ |
| You are subscribed to email updates from "monster aquarium fish" - Google News. To stop receiving these emails, you may unsubscribe now. | Email delivery powered by Google |
| Google, 1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, United States | |
Comments
Post a Comment